Quick motorcycle check
A few simple checks before setting out can help you spot a problem before the ride.
Tires
- no noticeable drop in pressure;
- there is no cut, bulge, or exposed cord;
- there is no obvious deformation or unusual uneven wear.
Brakes
The front brake lever and rear pedal should have their usual travel and resistance. If the lever sinks, has become unusually soft, or braking has noticeably weakened, it is better to postpone the ride.
Lights and controls
- the headlight and running lights work;
- the brake light comes on when either the front or rear brake is applied;
- both turn signals work;
- the throttle grip returns to its original position on its own.
Oil and leaks
Check the oil level as specified for your motorcycle, and look for fresh signs of oil, fuel, or coolant.
Chain
If the motorcycle has chain drive, check the slack according to its manual. Inspect the chain at several points: it should not be excessively tight, be too loose, or have visibly sticking links. A dry or heavily contaminated chain needs to be cleaned and lubricated with suitable products.
Belt or shaft drive
During a quick check, look for obvious belt damage, a fresh leak at the final drive, new play, a knock, or another symptom that was not there before. If anything has changed, it is better to determine the cause before the ride.
Sources · 2
- Руководство по вождению мотоцикла
Осмотр перед поездкой, T-CLOCS; PDF: с. 26.
Used for: Checking tires, brakes, and controls; looking for leaks.
Open source - How to Check Your Tire Pressure
Check your tire pressure; FAQ
Used for: Measuring cold-tire pressure and choosing the value specified in the motorcycle manual.
Open source
After a deep pothole or impact
Stop and look at the tire and rim. Check for a bulge, cut, loss of pressure, new vibration, or handlebar wobble.
After the ride
If you notice a fuel smell, a spot under the motorcycle, or a new knock during or after the ride, or if the brakes behave differently, find the cause before your next long trip.
After sitting for a long time
- tire pressure
- oil level
- brakes
- lights
- battery and starting
Remember the conditions when the problem appears
If a new knock or vibration appears, or the lever travel changes, note when it happens: with the motorcycle cold or warmed up, at what speed, and during acceleration or braking. This description will help identify the cause.
Sources · 1
- Motorcycle Operator Manual
Handling Dangerous Surfaces, pp. 28–30
Used for: Inspecting tires and wheel rims after a hard impact.
Open source
Don't make a habit of running the tank dry
On many motorcycles, the fuel pump is inside the tank and is cooled by the fuel. When the fuel level is nearly empty, pump cooling becomes less effective, and a pronounced lean or sudden acceleration can briefly cause the pump to draw in air. It is better not to run the tank completely dry.
Keep track of your range
After refueling, reset the trip meter. At the next fill-up, note the distance traveled and the amount of fuel added: this lets you estimate fuel consumption and see how many kilometers you usually get from a tank. On the highway, mark fuel stops in advance, especially when there are long distances between them.
Don't forget the load
Before riding with a passenger, luggage cases, or a heavy load, check the tire pressure and suspension settings if they are adjustable.
When not to ride
- the brake lever sinks noticeably
- the tire is losing pressure or a bulge has appeared
- fuel or oil is visibly leaking
- there is play or a knock in the steering
- the wheel is noticeably damaged
Sources · 2
- How to Check Your Tire Pressure
Check your tire pressure; FAQ
Used for: Tire pressure for carrying a passenger and luggage, according to the motorcycle manual.
Open source - Руководство по вождению мотоцикла
Подготовка пассажира и влияние дополнительной нагрузки; PDF: с. 42.
Used for: Preparing the motorcycle for the additional load.
Open source